While denim may be the unofficial uniform of American culture, women of all ages and sizes still struggle to find a flattering fit. Often, the search can easily end with even the most fashion-forward ladies stuck in a basic blue jean rut. TODAY style editor and Bobbie.com's Bobbie Thomas shares styles and silhouettes for Spring that will have you rethinking the way you wear this classic fabric.
Hip hip hooray
While my friend Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas has famously sung praise to her "humps", in reality, some of us have them and some of us don't.
For ladies with a straighter midsection and a smaller rear - pairs that fit in the hip and legs are often accompanied by too-tight waistlines. If you've found yourself experiencing this problem, you want to search for a style with that is cut slimmer in the thigh and hips, but has stretch in the waistband allowing for give. Look for jeans with a lower rise and opt for slim or straight leg styles instead of flare cuts (Sexy boot jeans $59.50; Gap.com). Lighter shades of denim can also offer symmetry to broad shoulders. Now for those of us who do have an hourglass figure with an ample backside and are frequently frustrated with a 'gap' in the back or not enough coverage, avoid low cut styles and try jeans with a curved 'yoke' in the rear - the seam just below the waistline. Flare and bootcut blues will balance your shape, and darker washes will elongate your frame and give the illusion of a longer leg (Curvy jeans $69.50, Gap.com).
Versatile blues
While 'worn-in' jeans are known for being the grab-and-go standard among college kids and those in their trendy twenties, there are great age-appropriate sophisticated options available. No longer exclusively reserved for 'errands' or around-the-house weekend wear, chic styles that are wearable for work and beyond can be dressed up or down when needed. Trouser jeans with a wider leg have a classic tailored feel and can be worn with a t-shirt and flip-flops or a beautiful blouse and heels for a more polished look (Flirt mid rise trouser jeans $29.50, Oldnavy.com). Alternatively, a pair or crisp white jeans can go to the beach with a tunic and sandals or to dinner with an elegant cardi-wrap and flats.the typical blue jean. But beyond spring and summer, you could also wear your white denim during winter with a cozy sweater and snow boots (White ankle zip crop jeans $89.50, Bananarepublic.com; DKNYC striped cardi wrap $39.99, TJmaxx.com; Loredana ballet flats $44.25, Ninewest.com).
Curve appeal
Curvy girls may instinctively feel the need to stray from rigid denim, but there are many choices available that embrace and flatter curves of all shapes and sizes. You can never go wrong with a dark rinse boot cut, which is flattering on nearly all body types. After scouring rack after rack sifting through literally hundreds of jeans, I found a fantastic selection of styles for fuller figures online at MadisonPlus.com. And Michael by Michael Kors came out on top as a crowd pleaser for a comfy option that offers stylish stretch and support in all of the right places. (Fashion To Figure animal print top; MICHAEL Michael Kors sausalito bootcut jeans $22-$79.50, Madisonplus.com). For women who feel like they normally can't wear jeans, don't shy away from jeggings. This trend that may seem intimidating at first, but can actually be your best friend since they stretch and contour to each individual body type. Perfect for anyone with more curves on top and slimmer legs, jeggings can help you show off your best assets. (Ankle jeggings $35, WDNYinternational.com; Calvin Klein sleeveless sweater & cardigan $79-89, Macys.com; Matisse espadrille wedges $29.99, Tjmaxx.com)
Not just jeans
If you love your jeans but are interested in an alternative to the basic blues, consider a button-down shirt, jean jacket, or even a blue-jean bag or shoe. There's an abundance to choose from this season, as head-to-toe denim is on trend, thanks to designers like Stella McCartney, Valentino, and Chanel all showcasing the look on their spring runways. A denim duo of a chambray shirt with a sleek denim skirt will look sharp for casual Friday's at the office (Calvin Klein Jeans shirt $51.99, Macys.com; Lauren Jeans Co. lori denim skirt $59.50, Lordandtaylor.com). And an easy way to slip into the idea is with a dress, which not only offers a twist on the norm, but a way to wear blues almost anywhere (Tommy Hilfiger belted denim shirtdress, $79.99, Macys.com). Try pairing your dress with denim pumps for a straight off the runway look (JS by Jessica Oscar Denim Pump $59.95, DSW.com).